SkyDrive Unveils SD-05 Flying Car Design, Aiming to Begin Air Taxi Service in 2025

Japan's SkyDrive Inc. has unveiled the design of its commercial model flying car -- the SkyDrive SD-05. SkyDrive is planning to use the SD-05, currently in development, to launch air taxi service in the Osaka Bay area during the world exposition scheduled for 2025 in Japan.

Headquartered in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, SkyDrive is a leading developer and manufacturer of flying cars and cargo drones.

The SD-05 is a two-seat, electric-powered compact aircraft with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities.

Operated by a driver-pilot, its flight stability is secured with the assistance of a computer-controlled flight system. 

It is designed to travel up to approx. 10 km and the maximum cruise speed is 100 km/h. 

Potential applications for SD-05 are currently under consideration, including short-cut transportation through the sky, a unique access to resort facilities, and emergency medical services.

The company has also announced that it has formed a strategic alliance with Volatus Infrastructure, LLC.

The strategic alliance to support each other’s business development and market expansion goals. SkyDrive will integrate Volatus’ AAM infrastructure including vertiports and charging stations into its US business platform.

SkyDrive will also support Volatus in expanding its eVTOL infrastructure into the Japanese market.

Takumi Yamamoto, SkyDrive design director, says:"This is another big step towards the realization of flying cars and sky roads. Two years have passed since the announcement of the SD-03, which successfully completed its public manned flight test in August 2020, and we are very happy to be able to announce its successor, the SD-05."

"SkyDrive will continue to design the dreams of the future with the aim of realizing sky roads, SkyDrive is also moving to promote its business operations not only in Japan but also outside the country. In the U.S., for example, the company set up an office in September 2022, for the purpose of providing a means of "last mile" air transportation. The company has been developing the market jointly with local authorities and partner companies," adds Yamamoto.

SkyDrive is in the process of acquiring a type certificate for the SD-05 from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), as the first of its kind in Japan.